All 17 passengers abducted by suspected gunmen along the Calabar–Oron waterway, nearly two weeks ago have been rescued by the Nigerian Navy after spending 12 days in captivity.
A top Naval officer, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed to ait.live that the victims were rescued from the creeks on Monday afternoon following a coordinated intelligence-led operation.
The officer explained that Naval troops blocked the only escape route to the creek, cutting off supplies and forcing the kidnappers to release their victims without payment of ransom.
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The Source added that the Navy avoided direct shoot-out confrontation with the suspected abductors to ensure the safety of the victims, who are now receiving medical attention.
The Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Navy, Igri Ewa, he also confirmed the victims’ release, and assured that the Calabar waterways remain safe for movement of goods and passengers.
It would be recalled that the 17 passengers were abducted while traveling from Calabar in Cross River State to Oron in Akwa Ibom State when their ferry was hijacked by gunmen.
Some passengers, including the spokesperson of the Akwa Ibom Police Command, DSP Timfon John, narrowly escaped the attack.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
